9 Signs You're Not Ready For A Tattoo Quite Yet

Getting a tattoo is a huge commitment, and generally best to be avoided when you're super drunk. But even when you're totally sober, there are some key signs you're not ready for a tattoo quite yet. It's completely normal to be nervous (I know I was before I got my first tattoo!), but if several of the things below resonate with you, it might be a good idea to wait a little bit longer before hitting up a parlor.

It took years for me to be ready for my first tattoo, so you're definitely not alone if you know you want one but just aren't ready to take the leap. My best friend and I made a pact when we were 12 years old (that's right, 12) that we would get tattoos together when we turned 18. Only problem was, when my 18th birthday finally rolled around, I felt incredibly uncertain about getting one.

Two years later, I finally felt officially prepared to get a tattoo with my best. She opted for a lovely quote from the Bible, and I went with a line from one of my favorite pieces of ancient Roman literature. #LatinClassNerdsRepresent!

There's no shame in waiting, and I'm really glad I did. Before you impulsively call up a tattoo parlor, scan the signs you're not ready to get a tattoo first.

1. You Don't Know What You Want

You might be a "fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants kind of person, but a tattoo is something you're going to have forever. If you haven't settled down on at least a few ideas that speak to you, it might be a good idea to hold off and scan inspo like these tattoo ideas for spiritual people.

2. Your Pain Tolerance Is Really Low

I'm not going to sugarcoat it — tattoos hurt! If the mere thought of needles make you queasy, talking your fears through with a tattoo artist will help you feel more prepared. Or just rock stick on tattoos forever and ever instead!

3. You Lack Funds

Tattoos don't come cheap, and the last thing you want to do is go to a sketchy artist in an attempt to save money. Try to set aside even just a few dollars each month and you'll be ready to splurge on a quality tat in no time.

4. The Thought Of It Stresses You Out

The idea of finally getting a tattoo might make you nervous, but it's not something you should be stressed over or dread. If you're not 100 percent pumped to get one, wait and see if you really want it.

5. You Feel Pressured

My best friend was a little bummed to wait two years after turning to get a tattoo with me, but was supportive. Peer pressure is never a good reason to get inked!

6. You're Kind Of Lazy

Hey, there's no shame in rocking the ultra-chill life, but tattoos require proper aftercare to turn out well. If you don't feel like you can handle the maintenance right now, hold off.

7. You Have No Idea Where You Want It

Knowing where you want your tattoo is just as important as knowing what you want. If you're not sure where you want it, chances are you haven't thought about it long and hard enough.

9. You Think It Might Affect Your Job

I hate to be old school, but if you think a tattoo would put your job in jeopardy, make sure it's really worth it. You can always get a tattoo after you move to a work environment that would care less.

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